NEW YORK CITY --Atari Interactive has announced the development of Pridefest, an original social sim game with an LBGT theme for tablets and mobile devices. Pridefest empowers a player to create and launch their own personalized gay pride parade in a city of their choosing. Users can customize a parade flotilla with colorful decorations, and adorn a locale with eye-catching attractions and entertainment.

Gameplay requires players to solve challenges and complete quests to unlock new parade and festival supplies, among other bonuses. The game will incorporate various personalization and social features, including the opportunity to chat with friends, visit each other's cities and create avatars bedecked in clothes and jewelry.

"We are excited to be developing Atari's first LGBT-themed game that will give players of all backgrounds the chance to play a fun and unique game that represents a passionate cause," said Atari chief operating officer Todd Shallbetter. "We will continue offering a variety of games that are inclusive for all Atari fans and Pridefest is another example of how we are doing that."

Atari recently sponsored and attended the second-ever GaymerX convention in which LGBT gamers and allies united in celebration of equality and diversity in gaming. To date, reaction from the gay-gamer community has been positive.

"Gaming is the largest entertainment sector in the world, and Atari is one of the most recognizable and iconic brands," said GaymerX founder Matt Conn. "To have them support our conference and cause, as well as bring an LGBTQ-themed game to market is a huge step toward equality in gaming. It's extremely important that we see these large publishers like Atari stepping up to the plate, and I'm excited that they have the courage to take the first step in supporting the community."